Budget Proposes $39 Average Tax Increase

If Ramsey government officials pass the borough’s 2013 municipal budget as it was introduced Wednesday night, the average resident will see a $39 increase in the municipal portion of his or her tax bill over last year, officials said this week.

The operating budget, which totals $22,831,379.07, will require a 1.89% increase in taxes, which is under the state-mandated 2% tax levy cap.

Councilwoman Vanessa Jachzel said Wednesday night the budget is “fiscally conservative without sacrificing any of the services our residents have come to expect."

The total operating cost of the borough has actually gone down slightly since last year, thanks mostly to the purchase of an Airmont Rd. property for special needs housing last year, which was reimbursed by Affordable Housing funds, she said.

A reevaluation of Verizon’s stake in the borough that led to a significant tax break, increasing healthcare costs for municipal employees, a reduction in funding from the library and an increase in tax appeals are all contributing to the 1.89% increase, Jachzel said.

Overall, she said the budget process this year was a “very smooth one.” Mayor Chris Botta called the spending plan, “one we could all be happy with.”

Before it is officially adopted, the council will hold a public hearing on the 2013 budget on April 24.

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